Don't wait until a storm is ready to strike before taking action
Maybe after the storm, you were prompted to take action, developing a comprehensive emergency plan in case a similar disaster was to strike your area. Or, maybe you put it on your "to-do" list, only to see it fall down the priority chart as time went on. But, every aftermarket business, regardless of location, should not be without an emergency response plan in the event of a natural disaster.
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) stats suggest almost every state in the U.S. has been affected by extreme windstorms such as tornadoes and hurricanes. Virtually every state has been affected by "considerable" tornadoes. Plus, all Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico coastal areas in the United States have been affected by hurricanes.Their research says that even in states not normally susceptible to extreme windstorms, there are areas that experience dangerous high winds. "These areas are typically near mountain ranges, and include the Pacific Northwest coast."
Further statistics from Universal Underwriters state that every year between the months of June and November, an average of 10 tropical storms develop over the Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico. According to the insurer, six will become hurricanes, bringing high winds, rain, storms and other conditions, including tornadoes. And, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA's) National Weather Service recorded a total of almost 1,000 tornadoes that touched ground last year alone.
Earlier this year a series of violent thunderstorms and tornadoes destroyed homes and buildings across parts of Tennessee, Kentucky, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, Missouri and Arkansas. So, are you prepared?
"Studies show that implementing a comprehensive emergency plan (for natural disasters) may significantly reduce direct and indirect damage to businesses," said Jeff Lubberts, director of major loss for Universal Underwriters. "Effectively planning action steps, which address conditions before, during and after the storm, allows you to protect your business and employees."
Pre-planning, such as backing up computer files and storing information offsite, can help you withstand major disasters. (For a list of useful ideas, see "Strike First With Preparation".)As you develop your plan, remember your shop contains many hazardous materials that could harm employees or others living or working nearby. It is vital to have a current list of those chemicals used in your shop and keep it handy for emergency personnel.
Finally, any crisis plan you develop should be tested before it needs to be implemented. Testing can be as simple as role-playing or as complex as simulating the possible disaster.
Sativa Ross is Senior Editor of ABRN's sister publication Aftermarket Business.
